The point the film tries to make about the nation's messed up HealthCare plans is a good one, but by the time you've finished watching the film, you're most-likely going to feel like you've just watched a CNN debate than a drama. It would have been more acceptable in smaller dosages or if it was handled in a more realistic and less preachy fashion. While I was annoyed by most reviews I read on the film picking on this issue, I couldn't help but see their point as I watched the movie.
One thing I was relatively content with, was the film's portrayal of Christianity. John and his wife attend an obviously Christian church, and his wife even refers to herself as "a Christian woman" while adequately living up to the label through the character she was portrayed as. Other references to God are made during the film in a positive light, including Lester suggesting to John that he "let go, and let God."
All in all the film is decent, but not one good enough to recommend. Washington's performance saved what otherwise might have been a waste of film. The sad part is, with better direction, writing, and music, this could have been a strong film. If you have any questions or comments about the film before you see it (if you decide to), feel free to contact me. - John DiBiase (reviewed: 2/16/02)